How to Fix Radio Frequency Interference Problems at Home

Radio frequency interference, or RFI, refers to unwanted radio signals interfering with radio signals you do want. RFI has tell-tale signs of crackles, pulses and similar sounds heard on speakers and through devices. RFI can also be observed as spots on radar screens. RFI can seriously impede legitimate radio-frequency communication, especially on shipping vessels.RFI can also cause problems at home, especially if you have multiple devices running that are based on radio signals. Though this is not a problem for most homeowners, RFI can be a serious threat to home-based scientists, electricians, podcasters, or radio broadcasters.

As annoying as RFI can be, it’s possible to fix this problem. Here are several possible ways to fix recurring radio frequency interference issues:

Identify the Source of the Interference

To suppress RFI, you must first identify the location of the interference. It would require testing the parts of a system and checking the noise level coming from speakers. Listening to the receiver while at the same time switching between various equipment can also help you identify where the interference is coming from. Once you identify the origin, then it’s pretty easy to suppress the unwanted noise.

Get the Right Testing Equipment

Unwanted signals can enter radio devices in two main ways. The RFI is either conducted along wiring going into the radio. The second option is radiation, where noise sources radiate signals into a wiring system that connects to a radio.

To understand the origin and the cause of RFI, you will need the right testing equipment to check. Make sure you purchase high-quality RF amplifers and other products to test RFI at home. Faulty equipment will yield faulty results. Therefore, make sure you purchase your testing items from specialized sellers based in Australia.

Install Adequate Filtering

Conducted interference, as described above, can be filtered out from the power wiring system. TO do that, you will need to have a filtering unit built into the system. Ships and boat electrical systems typically have filtering equipment built in. You can look at these as an example of how to reduce or wholly eliminate conducted RFI.

Mind Changes to the Current Level

Radiated RFI can be caused because of frequent changes to the current level within an electrical grid. For example, opening or closing switches on a sudden basis can result in current changes that facilitate radiated interference. It can also occur if the current is constantly being changed, such as when changing a motor.

Radiated interference is more serious than conducted interference, particularly on marine vessels, because this type of interference can completely drown out a signal. Marine vessel antennas on radios are very sensitive and can pick up even the weakest signals, which can make radiated interference even worse. Therefore, it’s very important to identify the sources of radiated RFI and fix the issue by stabilizing the current force.

Use Shielding to Reduce RFI

Antennae shielding is one of the most well-known methods of suppressing RFI. Enclose the antenna is a metal cover or a can to prevent wayward signals from reaching the system. Shielding contains interference an protects antenna from picking up stray signals.

Using the right RFI suppression components will help you get rid of the problem without delays. Use the above tips optimally to tackle radio frequency interference.